Variable resistance exercise device

ABSTRACT

A variable resistance exercise device is described. The exercise device comprises an elongated shaft having a first end and an opposing second end; at least one force sensor coupled to the elongated shaft; at least one attachment member coupled to the elongated shaft; a connecting member, the connecting member adapted to be received by the at least one attached member; and a control module electrically coupled to the at least one force sensor for reading and recording force output by the at least one force sensor.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Pat. Application No. 63/320,151, titled Variable Exercise Device, and filed on Mar. 15, 2022, at the U.S. Pat. and Trademark Office, the entire content of which is incorporated by reference herein as if fully set forth below in its entirety for all applicable purposes.

FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to exercise devices, and, more particularly, to variable resistance exercise devices.

BACKGROUND

In fitness, variable resistance refers to a type of weightlifting in which the amount of resistance that the weight applies will vary throughout the exercise’s motion. Typical variable resistance machines use circular cams, lever arms and seat adjustments to regulate the amount of resistance throughout the exercise.

Variable resistance is advantageous compared to conventional exercise devices as variable resistance device offer variable, but persistent, resistance across a range of motion whereas conventional exercise devices, such as free weights, offer constant resistance. Constant resistant devices have the drawback that they force a user to exert the same amount both at the beginning of a range of motion (e.g., short exertion distance) before advantageous body mechanics arise and at the end of the range of motion where the user enjoys better body mechanics and can exert more force. As such, with conventional weights it is often the case that the user cannot exercise muscles across a full range of motion with sufficient resistance because the user cannot move past the initial ranges of motion where the user is weakest. Variable resistance exercise devices address this problem by providing low resistance at the beginning of the range of motion and higher resistance at the end of the range of motion.

However, existing variable resistance exercise devices have their drawbacks. While they offer a tremendous amount of resistance at the end of a range of motion, which is advantageous, such large resistance requires that the device be very stable and well-engineered to provide the stability needed by an exerciser that is fully concentrating on the large resistances that occur at the far end of the range of motion of exercises that are performed with such devices. Numerous designs for variable resistance devices have been built and sold over the years. However, advances in the design of such devices are needed in order to increase their utility, the breadth of exercises that they can be used for, and maximum amount of resistance that they can safely tolerate.

One current variable resistance exercise device is shown in U.S. Pat. Publication No. 2020/0269080 and describes an exercise kit that includes an exercise device, a base, and one or more elastic bands that couple the exercise device to the base. However, this variable resistance exercise device fails to provide the user with feedback that includes a force production versus a standard or the user’s own past results. It also fails to include a number of repetitions of force output based on a desired outcome and a desired stance or balance based on force production drift toward one quadrant or another.

Another current variable resistance exercise device is shown in U.S. Pat. Publication No. 2022/0134169 and describes an apparatus for use in resistance training. The apparatus comprises an elongated bar having pulley hubs located on the ends of the bar. Two slings are connected to the pulley hubs for supporting a resistance band during resistance exercise using the bar. However, like the variable resistance exercise device is shown in U.S. Pat. Publication No. 2020/0269080, this variable resistance exercise device also to provide the user with feedback that includes a force production versus a standard or the user’s own past results. It also fails to include a number of repetitions of force output based on a desired outcome and a desired stance or balance based on force production drift toward one quadrant or another.

In view of the above, what is needed in the art are improved variable resistance exercise devices that overcome the deficiencies in the existing variable resistance exercise devices.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of one or more aspects of the present disclosure to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated features of the disclosure. It is intended neither to identify key or critical elements of all aspects of the disclosure nor to delineate the scope of any or all aspects of the disclosure. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects of the disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description presented below.

In one example, a variable resistance exercise device is described. The exercise device comprises an elongated shaft having a first end and an opposing second end; at least one force sensor coupled to the elongated shaft; at least one attachment member coupled to the elongated shaft; a connecting member, the connecting member adapted to be received by the at least one attached member; and a control module electrically coupled to the at least one force sensor for reading and recording force output by the at least one force sensor.

According to one aspect, the at least one force sensor is a load cell.

According to another aspect, the connecting member is selected from an elastic band, chain, cord, rope, cable, and strap.

According to yet another aspect, the at least one attachment member is detachable.

According to yet another aspect, the exercise device further comprises a cover around the elongated shaft.

According to yet another aspect, the exercise device further comprises a power source coupled to the control module for powering the control module and the at least one force sensor.

According to yet another aspect, the power source is charged wirelessly or through a wired connection.

According to yet another aspect, an external device communicates with the exercise device wirelessly; and where in the external device is selected from a computer, mobile phone, laptop, and tablet.

According to yet another aspect, the exercise device further comprises a cooling unit located within the control module for reducing the temperature of the exercise device.

According to yet another aspect, a middle portion of the connecting member is secured to a foot plate; and where in the end user stands on the foot plate.

According to yet another aspect, the at least one sensor further measures counting repetitions and time between repetitions of an end user.

In another example, a foot plate is provided. The foot plate comprises an upper surface, a lower surface, a pair of opposing side walls, and a pair of opposing end walls, wherein the pair of opposing side walls and the pair of opposing ends walls are integrally connected; at least one pair of opposing channels located in the pair of opposing side walls or the pair of opposing ends walls, the at least one pair of opposing channels adapted to receive a connecting member, wherein the connecting member is connected to an exercise device; at least one force sensor located within the upper surface; and a control module electrically coupled to the at least one force sensor for reading and recording force output by the at least one force sensor.

According to one aspect, the at least one force sensor is a load cell.

According to another aspect, the connecting member is selected from an elastic band, chain, cord, rope, cable, and strap.

According to yet another aspect, the connecting member comprises a first end; a second end; and a middle portion connecting the first end and the second end; wherein the middle portion of the connecting member is received in the at least one pair of channels; and wherein the first end of the connecting member is connected to an exercise device.

According to yet another aspect, the foot plate further comprises a power source coupled to the control module for powering the control module and the at least one force sensor.

According to yet another aspect, the power source is charged wirelessly or through a wired connection.

According to yet another aspect, an external device communicates with the exercise device wirelessly; and wherein the external device is selected from a computer, mobile phone, laptop, and tablet.

According to yet another aspect, the foot plate further comprises a cooling unit located within the control module for reducing the temperature of the foot plate.

According to yet another aspect, the at least one sensor further measures counting repetitions and time between repetitions of an end user.

These and other aspects of the invention will become more fully understood upon a review of the detailed description that follows. Other aspects and features of the present invention will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the following description of specific examples of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures. While features of the present invention may be discussed relative to certain examples and figures below, all features of the present invention can include one or more of the advantageous features discussed herein. In other words, while one or more aspects may be discussed as having certain advantageous features, one or more of such features may also be used in accordance with the various examples of the invention discussed herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features, nature, and advantages of the present aspects may become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings in which like reference characters identify correspondingly throughout.

FIG. 1 illustrates an end user utilizing an exemplary exercise device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates an end user utilizing an exemplary exercise device and foot plate in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary exercise device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary exercise device in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary exercise device in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary exercise device in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary foot plate in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a block diagram of an example of a hardware implementation of the exemplary exercise device.

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary an end user utilizing an exemplary pair of exercise devices in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, specific details and examples are given to provide a thorough understanding of the subject matter. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the examples may be practiced without these specific details.

Terms

The terms “individual”, “exerciser,” “end user,” and “user” may be used interchangeably.

The term “connecting member” may be used to refer to elastic bands, ropes, cable, straps, chains and cables with resistant pulleys, or any other suitable component known in the art.

The term “force sensor” may refer to any type of sensor that can measure force, including but not limited to, load cells, pneumatic load cells, capacitive load cells, strain gauge load cells, hydraulic load cells.

The term “attachment member” may be used to refer to open hooks, closed eyelets, eye hooks, a grooved pulley wheel which accepts a connecting member, or any other suitable component known in the art.

Exercise Device

Referring to FIGS. 1-6 , a portable exercise device 102 is provided for a user to conduct strength training using connecting members 104 at home, at the gym, in an office area or in the outdoors. As discussed in further detail below, the portable exercise device 102 may be used with one or more connecting members 104 and with or without a foot plate 106.

Turning to FIG. 1 , an end-user 100 utilizing the exercise device 102 without a foot plate is illustrated. As shown, the connecting member 104 may be detachably secured to ends of the exercise device 102. The end-user 100 may stand on the connecting member 104 and lift or pull the exercise device 102 upwards causing the connecting member 104 to expand increasing resistance. Alternatively, the end-user 100 may utilize a foot plate 106 with the exercise device 102. As shown in FIG. 2 , the connecting member 104 may extend underneath the foot plate 106 and be detachably secured to the ends of the exercise device 102. The end-user 100 may stand on the foot plate 106 and lift or pull the exercise device 102 upwards causing the connecting member 104 to apply a force.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the exercise device 102 of the present disclosure, while FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view the exercise device 102 in FIG. 3 . As shown, the exercise device 102 may include an elongated shaft 118 extending along an axis and having a first end and an opposing second end. One or more force sensors may be coupled to the elongated shaft 118. For example, as shown in FIG. 3 , first and second force sensors 114, 116 may be coupled to the first and second ends of the elongated shaft 118, respectively. The first and second force sensors 114, 116 can be any type of load cell or strain gauge that is capable of measuring the load applied to the end of the exercise device 102. The first and second force sensors 114, 116 can be configured to measure forces in any direction or orientation. Although two force sensors are shown in FIG. 3 , this is by way of example only and the exercise device 102 may include one or more force sensors.

In the example shown in FIG. 3 , first and second attachment members 108, 110 may be coupled to the first and second force sensors 114, 116, respectively, and provide secure attachment points for the connecting members 104 or other exercise devices. That is, the first attachment member is adapted to receive a first end of the connecting member 104 and the second attachment member 110 is adapted to receive a second end of the connecting member 104. The first and second attachment members 108, 110 can be made of any material suitable for the intended use, such as metal, plastic, or rubber and may be detachable or permanently attached to the first and second force sensors 114, 116.

The force sensors 114, 116 measure the force applied when the end-user pulls up on the exercise device 102 while it is secured to the connecting member 104, such as an elastic band. The force sensors 114, 116 may be load cells which are transducers that convert the force applied to them into an electrical signal, which can then be measured and recorded. Although the force sensors are shown connected between the elongated shaft and the attachment members, this is by way of example only. The force sensors may be located on or within the attachment members.

When the end-user pulls up on the exercise device 102, the connecting member 104 stretches and exerts a force on the exercise device 102, which is then transmitted to the force sensors 114, 116 which convert this force into an electrical signal, which is proportional to the force applied. The signal can then be measured and recorded. Overall, the use of force sensors 114, 116 on the exercise device 102 provide a way to accurately measure the force applied during exercise, which can be useful for monitoring progress and adjusting the level of resistance to suit the end-user’s needs.

The exercise device 102 may further include a cover 122 which may be secured around the elongated member 118. According to one embodiment, the cover 122 may rotate or revolve around the elongated shaft 118 allowing the first and second attachment members 108, 110 to remain parallel to the connecting member 104.

The exercise device 102 may further include a control module 120. As discussed in further detail below, the control module 120 may include a programmable controller which is an electronic device that can be programmed to perform various control functions in industrial automation, robotics, and other applications. To measure force using the one or more sensors, the programmable controller converts the electrical output signals of the one or more sensors into a digital value that can be processed by the controller. The digital value represents the force or weight being measured by the one or more force sensors. This value can then be processed by the controller which can be programmed to perform various control functions based on the measured force. For example, it can activate an alarm if the force exceeds a certain threshold. The control module 175 may be located inside, or on, the cover 122. Alternatively, the control module may be separate from the exercise device and communicate wirelessly to the one or more force sensors. The force sensors, coupled with the control module, read and record force output by the end user of the exercise device 102 allowing the device to capture the overall force on the device as well as the force applied on each end - ostensibly by each hand of the end user. The force signals from the force sensors can be utilized to show real-time force production as well stored for future evaluation.

FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate alternative embodiments of the exercise device 102 described above with reference to FIG. 3 . As shown in FIG. 5 , the exercise device 102 may have arms 202 extending outwards from the ends having pulley hubs 204 attached thereto. As shown in FIG. 6 , the exercise device 102 may have arms 202 extending outwards from the ends having eye hooks 206 attached thereto. The connecting member 104 is then secured to the pulley hubs 204 or eye hooks 206.

Foot Plate

The end-user may utilize a foot plate 106 with the exercise device 102. FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary foot plate 106 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 2 , the connecting member 104 may extend underneath the foot plate 106 though one or more channels 212 for retaining the connecting member to the foot plate 106. The connecting member 104 may be detachably secured to the first and second attachment members 108, 110 of the exercise device 102. In an exemplary embodiment, the end-user 102 may stand on the foot plate 106 and lift or pull the exercise device 102 upwards causing the connecting member 104 to expand increasing resistance. The foot plate 108 allows the end-user to secure the connecting member 104 in place.

In some embodiments, the foot plate 106 further includes one more force sensors 210. In one example, each corner of the foot plate 106 may include a force sensor 210.

The foot plate 106 may include an upper surface, a lower surface, a pair of opposing side walls, and a pair of opposing end walls, wherein the pair of opposing side walls and the pair of opposing ends walls are integrally connected. The foot plate further includes at least one pair of opposing at least one pair of opposing channels located in the pair of opposing side walls or the pair of opposing ends walls and adapted to receive the connecting member. The ends of the connecting member may be attached to an exercise device, such as the exercise device of FIG. 3 . Alternatively, the ends of the connecting member may be attached to a dumb exercise device, that is an exercise device without the control module and force sensors.

At least one force sensor located within the upper surface of the foot plate. In one embodiment, the foot plate may include a force sensor in each of the four corners.

In one embodiment, the foot plate may include a control module electrically coupled to the at least one force sensor for reading and recording force output by the at least one force sensor, such as the contro module in FIG. 8 .

In one embodiment, the connecting member may comprises a first end, a second end, and a middle portion connecting the first end and the second end. The connecting member may be received in the at least one pair of channels and the first end and second ends of the connecting member may be connected to an exercise device, such as the exercise device of FIG. 3 . Alternatively, the first end of the connecting member may be attached to a first exercise device and the second end of the connecting member may be connected to a second exercise device as shown in FIG. 9 .

Hardware Implementation of Exercise Device

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware implementation of the control module 175 employing a processing system 120 according to some aspects of the disclosure. The control module 175 may be utilized in the exercise device 102, the foot plate 106, or both.

In accordance with various aspects of the disclosure, an element, or any portion of an element, or any combination of elements, may be implemented with a processing system 120 that includes one or more controllers (or processors), such as controller 123. Examples of controllers 123 include microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSPs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), state machines, gated logic, discrete hardware circuits, and other suitable hardware configured to perform the various functionality described throughout this disclosure. In various examples, the control module 175 may be configured to perform any one or more of the functions described herein. The controller 123, as utilized in the control module 175 for the exercise device 102, may be used to implement any one or more of the methods or processes described and illustrated herein.

In this example, the processing system 120 may be implemented with a bus architecture, generally represented by the bus 151. The bus 151 may include any number of interconnecting buses and bridges depending on the specific application of the processing system 120 and the overall design constraints. The bus 151 links together various circuits, including one or more controllers (represented generally by the controller 123), a memory 125, and computer-readable media (represented generally by the computer-readable medium 139). The bus 151 may also link various other circuits such as timing sources, peripherals, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and will not be described further.

A bus interface 153 provides an interface between the bus 151 and a plurality of additional circuits/functions, including emitters 164 (e.g., LEDs), force sensors (such as load cells) 114, 116, optional sensor(s) 165, a transceiver 163, and antenna(s) 161. Although two force sensors are shown, this is by way of example as the any number of force sensors may be utilized. The preceding lists were exemplary and non-limiting. In some examples, a connector 171 may be fixed to (e.g., not removable from) the exercise device 102. Connectors may include, but are not limited to USB, RJ11, and/or RJ45 types of connectors. The connector 171 may be used to connect the exercise device to a computer, phone, laptop, tablet, or any other electronic device 167. Alternatively, the exercise device 102 may communicate with a computer, phone, laptop, tablet, or any other electronic device 167 wirelessly via the communications network, represented by the cloud 155.

The transceiver 163 and antenna(s) 161 may provide a communication interface or a means for communicating with various other apparatus over a transmission medium (e.g., a wireless interface). The transceiver 163 may be a wireless communication interface. For example, the wireless communication interface 163 may be configured to permit a user to interface with the exercise device 102 via Bluetooth®, WiFi®, WiMAX®, LTE, 4G, 5G and beyond, or the like. The one or more antennas 161 may be configured to operate at the frequency or frequencies utilized by the wireless communication interface 163.

The controller 123 may be responsible for managing the bus 151 and general processing, including executing software stored on the computer-readable medium 139. The software, when executed by the controller 123, causes the processing system 120 to perform the various functions described below for any particular apparatus. The computer-readable medium 139 and the memory 125 may also be used for storing data manipulated by the controller 123 when executing software. For example, the memory 125 may store feedback data 127 received from the force sensors 114, 116 and sets of instructions 129 generated to provide an exercise device that obtains a specific exercise workout outcome. The preceding list is exemplary and non-limiting. Again, although two force sensors are shown, this is by way of example only. There may be only a single force sensor or there may be more than two force sensors.

The feedback data may include an actual force, or similar a force, production versus a standard or the end-user’s own past results. It may also include a number of repetitions of force output based on a desired outcome asl well as a desired stance or balance/center-of-mass based on force production drift toward one quadrant of the board or another. Additionally, the feedback data may be sent to a third party application, and may also include the number of reps performed as well as force load quantity that a movement has taken place, when it ended, when it climaxed, how much rest in between, etc.

The control module 175 may be powered by a battery 173. The battery 173 may be located within the control module 175 as shown in FIG. 8 or may alternatively be located outside the control module 175 in or on the exercise device 102 or foot plate 106. The battery 173 may be charged through the connector on the control module 175 or may be charged wireless, such as using a Qi wireless charger. Alternatively, the battery 173 may be located separately from the exercise device 102 and plugged into a power outlet.

The exercise device 102 may also include movement sensors 165 that detect the orientation of the device in space. This information may be reported to the end user in such a way that they are aware of deviations from the proper form of a movement. For example, if an exercise requires the exercise device 102 to be horizontal, the sensor 165 can detect this and inform the end user that they are favoring one side over the other and make corrections to avoid physiological imbalances. The indication of the information may be on the exercise device 102 itself or within a software application (such as a third-party application) either in real-time or a latent visualization. This indication may be provided to the end user by way of emitters 164 (such as LEDs) whose signal could be detected by external sensors (like a camera) which determine the trajectory of the exercise device 102 while it is in use. Usage of the feedback from the one or more sensors may be used to enforce or guide the proper orientation of the exercise device 102 according to a prescribed usage pattern.

A corollary to these upgrades is a software application that displays recorded feedbacks from control module (or the electronics), and which may include real-time viewing of force productions and temperature. Feedback may include evaluation of the temperature and force production relative to prior outputs of the end user. In addition to real-time monitoring, the application may also generate reports which help the end user to evaluate their performance and provide recommendations on how to adjust their training to increase future performance.

One or more controllers (such as the controller 123) in the processing system 120 may execute software. Software shall be construed broadly to mean instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, programs, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executables, threads of execution, procedures, functions, etc., whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or otherwise. The software may reside on the computer-readable medium 139.

The computer-readable medium 139 may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium. A non-transitory computer-readable medium includes, by way of example, a magnetic storage device (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, magnetic strip), an optical disk (e.g., a compact disc (CD), or a digital versatile disc (DVD)), a smart card, a flash memory device (e.g., a card, a stick, or a key drive), a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable ROM (PROM), an erasable PROM (EPROM), an electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), a register, a removable disk, and any other suitable medium for storing software and/or instructions that may be accessed and read by a computer. The computer-readable medium 139 may reside in the processing system 120, external to the processing system 120, or distributed across multiple entities, including the processing system 120. The computer-readable medium 139 may be embodied in a computer program product. By way of example, a computer program product may include a computer-readable medium in packaging materials. In some examples, the computer-readable medium 139 may be part of the memory 125. Those skilled in the art will recognize how best to implement the described functionality presented throughout this disclosure depending on the particular application and the overall design constraints imposed on the overall system. In some examples, the computer-readable medium 139 may be implemented on an article of manufacture, which may further include one or more other elements or circuits, such as the controller 123 and/or memory 125.

In some aspects, the control module 175 may include the memory 125 and the controller 123 configured to perform any of the methods, functions, or algorithms described herein. In some aspects of the disclosure, the controller 123 may include circuitry configured for various functions. For example, the controller 123 may include communication and processing circuitry/function 131 (also referred to as the communication and processing circuitry 131 for the sake of brevity), configured to communicate with other devices internal and external to the control module 175, for example, via interfaces therebetween.

In some examples, the communication and processing circuitry 131 may include one or more hardware components that provide the physical structure that performs processes related to communication (e.g., signal reception and/or signal transmission) and signal processing (e.g., processing a received signal and/or processing a signal for transmission). In some examples, the communication and processing circuitry 131 may include one or more hardware components that provide the physical structure that performs processes related to processing, such as, for example, obtaining feedback data 127 and sets of instructions 129 from the memory 125 and processing such data to limit the features of the exercise device 102 accordingly. In some implementations where the communication involves receiving data from sensor(s) 114, 116, 165, for example, the communication and processing circuitry 131 may obtain the data, process the data, and output the processed data. For example, the communication and processing circuitry 131 may output the processed data to another component of the controller 123, the memory 125, or the bus interface 153. In some examples, the communication and processing circuitry 131 may receive one or more of signals, messages, other information, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the communication and processing circuitry 131 may include functionality for a means for receiving and/or a means for transmitting.

In some aspects of the disclosure, the controller 123 may include a set of instructions performance circuitry/function 133 configured for various functions, including operating a cooling unit 199, or a thermoelectric cooling mechanism for reducing the temperature of the exercise device 102. For a larger apparatus, a cooler, battery, and control module may be placed inside the elongated shaft 118 of the exercise device 102. For smaller apparatuses, the cooler, battery, and control module may be placed in a rack or holder that the exercise device 102 is laid on or attached to.

In humans, the palms of the hand are nearly devoid of capillaries. Thus, the addition of the cooler allows the user to more easily reduce body temperature which has been shown to increase athletic output.

The cooling unit 199 may be located in the control module 175 or may be attached to the exercise device 102 and can adjust the temperature to achieve a particular amount of temperature reduction while the control module can measure the exercise device’s temperature dynamically and adjust the cooling effect in response to a pre-programmed, outcome. This includes the device powering off when not in use, as detected by the counter-heating of human contact.

The set of instructions performance circuitry 133 may further be configured to execute sets of performance instructions 143 (e.g., software) stored on the computer-readable medium 139 to implement one or more functions described herein.

In some aspects of the disclosure, the controller 123 may include a cooling unit circuitry/function 135 configured for various functions, including, for example, learning and adapting without following explicit instructions, by using algorithms and statistical models to analyze and draw inferences from patterns in data. The data may be received from the sensor(s) 165, for example, or received from the communication and processing circuitry/function 132 described above. The cooling unit circuitry/function 135 may further be configured to execute cooling unit instructions 135 (e.g., software) stored on the computer-readable medium 139 to implement one or more functions described herein.

In some aspects of the disclosure, the controller 123 may include, for example, sensor(s) processing circuitry/function 137, configured for various functions including, for example, obtaining information from sensor(s) 165 and acting on such information. For example, sensor(s) 165 may include a temperature sensor (e.g., a thermometer or a thermocouple), a camera which can be used to determine the trajectory of the device while it is in use, accelerometers and/or gyros to measure position, lights and photo-sensors to measure position relative to the outside world. Usage of the feedback from sensors may be used to enforce or guide the proper orientation of the exercise device 102 according to a prescribed usage pattern. The sensor(s) processing circuitry/function 137 may further be configured to execute sensor(s) processing instructions 147 to implement one or more functions described herein.

According to some aspects, the control module 175 (or the controller 123) described herein may communicatively couple to a server 157, which may be a remote server 157 and may pull data from and push data to a database 159 maintained at the server 157. Coupling may be via a communications network, represented by a cloud 155. Use of data, such as sets of instructions, feedback data, etc. stored in the database 159 at the server 157 by the end user may facilitate and improve the end user’s workout.

Pair of Exercise Devices

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary end user utilizing an exemplary pair of exercise devices 190 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Each exercise device 190 may include a structure similar to the exercise devices in FIGS. 3-5 , however, each exercise device 190 is scaled for the end user to utilize an exercise device 190 with each hand. The end user can utilize a single exercise device 190 in one hand while the other hand remains free. Alternatively, the end user can use two exercise devices, one in each hand.

As with the exercise device described with reference to FIGS. 3-4 . each exercise device 190 may include an elongated shaft 118 extending along an axis and having a first end and an opposing second end. One or more force sensors may be coupled to the elongated shaft 118. The one or more force sensors 114, 116 can be any type of load cell or strain gauge that is capable of measuring the load applied to the end of the exercise device 190. The one or more force sensors can be configured to measure forces in any direction or orientation.

Each exercise device 190 may include an attachment member 191 coupled to the one or more force sensors and provide a secure attachment point for connecting members (such as an elastic band, rope, chain) or other exercise devices. When utilizing two exercise devices 190, the attachment member 191 for a first exercise devices may be adapted to receive a first end of the connecting member 104 and an attachment member 191 of a second exercise device 190 is adapted to receive a second end of the connecting member 104. The attachment members can be made of any material suitable for the intended use, such as metal, plastic, or rubber and may be detachable or permanently attached to the one or more force sensors.

As described above, the one or more force sensors measure the force applied when the end user pulls up on the exercise device 190 while it is secured to the connecting member 104, such as an elastic band. The one or more force sensors may be load cells which are transducers that convert the force applied to them into an electrical signal, which can then be measured and recorded. Although the force sensors are shown connected between the elongated shaft and the attachment members, this is by way of example only. The force sensors may be located on or within the attachment members.

When the end user pulls up on the exercise device 190, the connecting member 104 stretches and exerts a force on the exercise device 102, which is then transmitted to the force sensors which convert this force into an electrical signal, which is proportional to the force applied. The signal can then be measured and recorded. Overall, the use of force sensors on the exercise device 190 provide a way to accurately measure the force applied during exercise, which can be useful for monitoring progress and adjusting the level of resistance to suit the end-user’s needs.

As with the exercise device 102 in FIGS. 3-4 , the exercise devices 190 in FIG. 9 may further include a cover which may be secured around the elongated member. According to one embodiment, the cover may rotate or revolve around the elongated shaft allowing the attachment members 108, 110 to remain parallel to the connecting member 104. Each exercise device 190 may further include a control module 120 as described above with reference to FIG. 8 .

While certain examples and features have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such examples and features are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention and that this invention is not limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those ordinarily skilled in the art.

Within the present disclosure, the word “exemplary” is used to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation or aspect described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects of the disclosure. Likewise, the term “aspects” does not require that all aspects of the disclosure include the discussed feature, advantage, or mode of operation. The term “coupled” is used herein to refer to the direct or indirect coupling between two objects. For example, if object A physically touches object B, and object B touches object C, then objects A and C may still be considered coupled to one another-even if they do not directly physically touch each other. For instance, a first object may be coupled to a second object even though the first object is never directly physically in contact with the second object. The terms “circuit” and “circuitry” are used broadly, and intended to include both hardware implementations of electrical devices and conductors that, when connected and configured, enable the performance of the functions described in the present disclosure, without limitation as to the type of electronic circuits, as well as software implementations of information and instructions that, when executed by a processor, enable the performance of the functions described in the present disclosure.

One or more of the components, steps, features and/or functions illustrated in FIGS. 1-9 may be rearranged and/or combined into a single component, step, feature, or function or embodied in several components, steps, or functions. Additional elements, components, steps, and/or functions may also be added without departing from novel features disclosed herein. The apparatus, devices, and/or components illustrated in FIGS. 1-9 may be configured to perform one or more of the methods, features, or steps described herein. The novel algorithms described herein may also be efficiently implemented in software and/or embedded in hardware.

It is to be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the methods disclosed is an illustration of exemplary processes. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the methods may be rearranged. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented unless specifically recited therein.

The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.” Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. A phrase referring to “at least one of” a list of items refers to any combination of those items, including single members. As an example, “at least one of: a, b, or c” is intended to cover: a; b; c; a and b; a and c; b and c; and a, b and c. The construct A and/or B is intended to cover: A; B; and A and B. The word “obtain” as used herein may mean, for example, acquire, calculate, construct, derive, determine, receive, and/or retrieve. The preceding list is exemplary and not limiting. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. §112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, the element is recited using the phrase “step for.” 

What is claimed is:
 1. An exercise device, comprising: an elongated shaft having a first end and an opposing second end; at least one force sensor coupled to the elongated shaft; at least one attachment member coupled to the elongated shaft; a connecting member, the connecting member adapted to be received by the at least one attached member; and a control module electrically coupled to the at least one force sensor for reading and recording force output by the at least one force sensor.
 2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the at least one force sensor is a load cell.
 3. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the connecting member is selected from an elastic band, chain, cord, rope, cable, and strap.
 4. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the at least one attachment member is detachable.
 5. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a cover around the elongated shaft.
 6. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a power source coupled to the control module for powering the control module and the at least one force sensor.
 7. The exercise device of claim 6, wherein the power source is charged wirelessly or through a wired connection.
 8. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein an external device communicates with the exercise device wirelessly; and where in the external device is selected from a computer, mobile phone, laptop, and tablet.
 9. The exercise device of claim 8, wherein the exercise device communicates with a third-party application on the external device.
 10. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising a cooling unit located within the control module for reducing the temperature of the exercise device.
 11. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein a middle portion of the connecting member is secured to a foot plate; and where in the end user stands on the foot plate.
 12. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor further measures counting repetitions and time between repetitions of an end user.
 13. A foot plate, comprising: an upper surface, a lower surface, a pair of opposing side walls, and a pair of opposing end walls, wherein the pair of opposing side walls and the pair of opposing ends walls are integrally connected; at least one pair of opposing channels located in the pair of opposing side walls or the pair of opposing ends walls, the at least one pair of opposing channels adapted to receive a connecting member, wherein the connecting member is connected to an exercise device; at least one force sensor located within the upper surface; and a control module electrically coupled to the at least one force sensor for reading and recording force output by the at least one force sensor.
 14. The foot plate of claim 13, wherein the at least one force sensor is a load cell.
 15. The exercise device of claim 13, wherein the connecting member is selected from an elastic band, chain, cord, rope, cable, and strap.
 16. The exercise device of claim 13, wherein the connecting member comprises: a first end; a second end; and a middle portion connecting the first end and the second end; wherein the middle portion of the connecting member is received in the at least one pair of channels; and wherein the first end of the connecting member is connected to an exercise device.
 17. The foot plate of claim 13, further comprising a power source coupled to the control module for powering the control module and the at least one force sensor.
 18. The foot plate of claim 17, wherein the power source is charged wirelessly or through a wired connection.
 19. The foot plate of claim 13, wherein an external device communicates with the exercise device wirelessly; and wherein the external device is selected from a computer, mobile phone, laptop, and tablet.
 20. The foot plate of claim 19, wherein the foot plate communicates with a third-party application on the external device.
 21. The foot plate of claim 13, further comprising a cooling unit located within the control module for reducing the temperature of the foot plate.
 22. The foot plate of claim 13, wherein the at least one sensor further measures counting repetitions and time between repetitions of an end user. 